A dental crown is a versatile dental restoration that is able to address dental damage while enhancing the size, shape, and color of the treated tooth. Dental crowns sit over the natural tooth like a small cap, so we can preserve the core of the natural tooth, as well as its root structure.

One of the many reasons that dental crowns are such a popular cosmetic and restorative dentistry treatment is that they are strong and durable. Here, cosmetic dentist Sharon B. Mateja goes over the dental crown lifespan and provide aftercare tips that will help our Rancho Cucamonga, CA, patients prolong the longevity of these restorations.

How Long Will My Dental Crown Last?

The dental crowns offered at Dr. Mateja’s dental practice are fabricated using ceramic materials that can withstand the daily wear and tear the teeth are exposed to. These high-quality restorations have been known to last between 10 and 20 years, or even longer.

The lifespan of a dental crown depends a lot on patient aftercare. Factors that determine how long a dental crown will last for our Rancho Cucamonga patients include:

• The patient’s oral hygiene habits
• How frequently a patient sees the dentist for routine exams and cleanings
• The type of foods the patient eats
• The patient’s dental habits
• The patient’s overall oral health

Patients who care for their dental crowns by following Dr. Mateja’s recommended aftercare instructions are likely to enjoy their dental crowns for many years.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits

The way patients care for their teeth and gums at home will have the greatest impact on the lifespan of a dental crown. Patients can protect their dental crown, and the natural teeth, by brushing and flossing regularly. Ideally, patients should brush after every meal. However, if patients brush at least twice a day, rinse their mouth with water after every meal, and floss each night, they can significantly cutdown on the risk of tooth decay and other dental complications that could shorten the lifespan of dental restorations.

Avoid Harmful Dental Habits

There are many dental habits that expose the teeth to excess force and pressure. Over time, these habits can damage tooth enamel and leave the teeth vulnerable to infection and other oral health problems. Harmful dental habits can also cause structural damage to dental crowns, which can significantly shorten their lifespan.

To prolong the lifespan of dental crowns, patients should avoid:

• Teeth grinding and clenching
• Nail biting
• Chewing on ice
• Using the teeth as tools

Limit Potentially Damaging Foods

Dental crowns are made to be durable enough to bite, chew, and breakdown foods. For the most part, our Rancho Cucamonga patients should feel free to eat or drink whatever they like. However, it is wise to limit foods that can be damaging to dental crowns. This includes foods that are especially hard, sticky, or chewy.

Schedule Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings

Even if patients follows all recommended aftercare tips and practices good oral hygiene habits, the teeth and gums will require some professional attention. We advise patients to schedule a routine dental exam and cleaning at least once every six months. These appointments help patients preserve the natural teeth and dental restorations by significantly reducing the risk of serious dental complications.

Contact Us

Dr. Sharon B. Mateja offers a comprehensive range of dental services that help patients preserve the health, strength, and beauty of their smile. Contact us at your earliest convenience to learn more about the treatments available at our dental practice, or call (909) 989-5959 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mateja.